Competencies Required by Teacher Librarians for Improved Primary School Library Services in Enugu State of Nigeria

Abstract

School libraries are central to learner-centred and inquiry-based education. However, the services of teacher librarians are required to make the school library functional. To function effectively, teacher librarians require competencies in teaching, literacy promotion, librarianship, administration and advocacy. This paper explores competencies possessed and required by primary school teacher librarians in Enugu State of Nigeria for improved library services. The study is a survey research. With a purposive sample of sixteen primary schools with more developed school libraries, the researchers collected data through three instruments:  an observation checklist assessing school libraries on accommodation, collections, personnel and services; a  structured questionnaire with five clusters on competencies possessed, as well as open questions on factors inhibiting performance and strategies for improvement; and an interview guide. Data were analysed using frequency and percentages; and narrative description.  Findings revealed that the personnel factor was crucial in effective library services; that while none of the teacher librarians had qualifications in both education and librarianship, they did possess some competencies, especially in the areas of literacy promotion and teaching while lacking others such as library skills. Among recommended actions to increase competencies and strengthen the performance of teacher librarians were: establishment of a clear career ladder for teacher librarians, continuing professional education leading to dual qualifications, inclusion of library periods on the timetable, development of a curriculum to guide teaching of library and information literacy skills, and advocacy to create a more supportive working environment for teacher librarians. Only such actions can improve school library services, since only well qualified teacher librarians can deliver effective school library services.

Keywords: Teacher librarians; School libraries; Library services